Martial Arts World Orlando

Supreme Grandmaster Y.K. Kim

A Modern Educator and a Contemporary Philosopher

A Modern Educator and a Contemporary Philosopher

The Chairman and Founder of Martial Arts World

YK Kim-Founder of Martial Arts World

Our Founder Y.K. Kim

Y.K. Kim is a modern philosopher. He is the founder of Martial Arts World— Supreme Grand Master Y. K. Kim holds an unwavering belief in human potential. He teaches that greatness is not accidental, nor is it inherited. Human potential is maximized through three eternal principles: Education to awaken the mind, discipline to strengthen character, and daily action to transform belief into reality.

There is no one quite like Y.K. Kim. Some call him crazy. Others call him a genius. He accepts both without hesitation—for history shows that the transformation of society has always required uncommon dedication and genius-level commitment. He labors where others retreat, works where others hesitate, and endures what few dare to endure. He is driven by a single mission: to elevate humanity through 5Fitness, and in doing so, to change the world.

A native of Seoul, Korea, Y.K. Kim stands as living proof that the American Dream is real. In 1976, he left his homeland and came to the United States with only his black belt and a heart full of hope. He endured culture shock, financial hardship, and language barriers—shedding blood, sweat, and tears—and refused to quit.

Y.K. Kim is a modern philosopher. He is the founder of Martial Arts World— Supreme Grand Master Y. K. Kim holds an unwavering belief in human potential. He teaches that greatness is not accidental, nor is it inherited. Human potential is maximized through three eternal principles: Education to awaken the mind, discipline to strengthen character, and daily action to transform belief into reality.

There is no one quite like Y.K. Kim. Some call him  crazy. Others call him a genius. He accepts both without hesitation—for history shows that the transformation of society has always required uncommon dedication and genius-level commitment. He labors where others retreat, works where others hesitate, and endures what few dare to endure. He is driven by a single mission: to elevate humanity through 5Fitness, and in doing so, to change the world.

Author
Motivational Speaker
Producer - Writer - Director - Star

  • Author of Winning is a Choice, M A Business, Tae Kwon Do, Health Is the Foundation of Success, Tae Kwon Do World, six Martial Arts World books, Join the Millionaire Club, U.S. National Exercise, The 5 Pillars of True Success, Action Body, Enjoy 125 Years of Healthy Living, Motivational speaker on 100 years of healthy living / Are you a trillionaire? Amazon Books
  • Producer, writer, director, and star of the movie Miami Connection. 1988 IMDb
  • Publisher and editor-in-chief of Martial Arts World News. MAWN
  • Writer and producer of the songs “Action Body,” “Sky Is the Limit,” You Can Reach the Top,” “Mom, You Are My Hero,” and “Financial Success.” Music by Y.K. Kim
  • Hall of Fame Inductee into the Grand Masters Society. 2009 U.S. Grandmasters
  • Chairman of an IT software company.
His next great vision is bold and historic. He seeks to establish a four-year Martial Arts World University—a new and unique institution that unites the intellectual rigor of Harvard University, the discipline and leadership tradition of United States Military Academy at West Point, and the forward-looking power of a new AI-centered college.
Its purpose is to educate the whole human being—mind, body, character, and purpose— to develop future leaders for a rapidly changing world. By leading advanced technology, we can guide super AI wisely and make the world a better place to live.
Some of our Reviews
Posted on Google Google
Brooke Cascio profile picture
Brooke Cascio
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We have been so blessed to find Martial Arts World!! I wish there were more than 5 stars to give them because our experience has been nothing short of amazing. We had some behavior challenges with our son and putting him in the after school program has given him a new sense of confidence and discipline. The staff is awesome and has partnered with us to ensure our son is learning and developing life skills such a discipline, respect and appropriate boundaries. I would highly recommend Martial Arts World and have not been able to stop telling everyone about our wonderful experience there. Thank you Martial Arts World for all that you do!
Posted on Google Google
Jorge Fochezato profile picture
Jorge Fochezato
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Martial Arts World has been a game-changer for our family. Their summer camp and after-school program have made such a positive impact on my son. Not only is he staying active and healthy, but we’ve also seen a huge boost in his self-confidence, focus, and discipline. The instructors are incredibly supportive and truly care about each child’s development — both physically and emotionally. My son looks forward to every session and comes home excited about what he’s learned. It’s more than just martial arts — it’s life skills, respect, and a strong sense of community. We’re so grateful for everything this program has done for our child. Highly recommend Martial Arts World to any parent looking to support their child’s growth and happiness!
Posted on Google Google
Jesse Meadow profile picture
Jesse Meadow
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
What a great place! We started with our first daughter in their summer camp and because of that great experience, enrolled for after school during the year as well. Its now been two years and our youngest is old enough to join her sister for their summer camp and after school programs. The training is great but it's the culture and family environment that puts MAW ahead of all others for us. From the Grandmasters to the instructors in training, everyone is passionate, dedicated, and welcoming. Highly recommend.
Posted on Google Google
Stephanie Coleman profile picture
Stephanie Coleman
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Our son started the after school program this year and it has been amazing! I can’t speak highly enough about the staff and the programming. We have seen him develop better leadership skills, better fitness and better character. I would highly recommend Martial Arts World to anyone!
Posted on Google Google
Joel Bautista profile picture
Joel Bautista
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mi hijo es muy feliz en ese lugar, al yo ver lo mucho que mi hijo lo disfrutaba también me inscribí para formar parte de su crecimiento felicidad. Thanks Martial Art World
Posted on Google Google
Stephanie Siperko profile picture
Stephanie Siperko
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My son and I have been training here for two years. I do the evening classes and my son does aftercare and summer camp here. Practicing the martial arts has positively impacted both of us, physically and mentally. My son has even been getting better grades in school! The entire staff is welcoming, friendly, and professional. The instructors are all fantastic, incredibly knowledgeable, and truly care about their students. Martial Arts World Orlando has become like a second home to me and I cannot recommend it highly enough!
Posted on Google Google
Sibil Edghill profile picture
Sibil Edghill
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
This is an exceptional establishment!!! The kids learn discipline amongst other wonderful life values that a child should be instilled with growing up. The support they offer is top notch! I have gained so much help at home with my children due to Martial Arts world!!
Posted on Google Google
Charmell Davis profile picture
Charmell Davis
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
This is a Martial Arts school not just a program and it has changed us for the better. My little one is thriving and we got the whole family involved. My son has improved in every single way. Positive, strong, self- assured and armed with the tools for a healthy mind-set. I love this little school, the owner and the instructors.
Posted on Google Google
Michelle Dodson profile picture
Michelle Dodson
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Martial Arts World has been so incredible for my son! Instructor Thomas and Grandmaster have been so wonderful.

Our Martial Arts Programs

Orlando's Best Martial Arts School

© Martial Arts World Orlando 1982 - 2026 All rights reserved | Powered by MAW